City Manager Finalist Forum - 4.13.26

The City of Beloit, Wisconsin held a City Manager Finalist Forum on April 13, 2026, featuring candidates Daniel Ortiz Hernandez and John Wido. The forum focused on candidates' backgrounds, community engagement strategies, and approaches to key local issues such as economic development, housing affordability, and public safety service consolidations. Both candidates discussed their experience with managing tax increment financing (TIF) districts, neighborhood revitalization, and partnerships with educational institutions. They addressed the challenges and opportunities related to the Ho-Chunk Nation's $75 million casino and hotel project, emphasizing the importance of workforce development, infrastructure planning, and community impact. Public safety topics included fire and EMS service consolidation, with candidates sharing relevant past experiences. While no specific contract awards or procurement decisions were made during the forum, the discussion highlighted policy considerations and strategic priorities that could influence future procurement and capital projects in Beloit.